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The Rx Abuse Leadership Initiative (RALI) of New Mexico
is an organization that brings together leaders and resources from across our state to combat prescription drug abuse and ensure communities have access to effective resources to help individuals and families facing addiction.
New Mexico residents who are struggling with addiction can access the state’s crisis line here.
ABOUT US
The opioid crisis is challenging individuals, families and communities throughout New Mexico and overdose-related deaths have reached epidemic levels in the state.
RALI New Mexico is working to expand improvements and continue to positively impact change. It is a coalition that brings together local, state, and national leaders to support, highlight and execute initiatives to address opioid misuse and addiction.
LEADERS MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Organizations across the state are working to make a difference and save lives in New Mexico.
Learn more about RALI New Mexico partners by clicking on the images below.
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Have an organization, event, or individual in your community making a difference in the fight against opioid misuse? Let us know by filling out a short form:
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SAFE USE & DISPOSAL
Everyone can play a role in helping to address the opioid crisis by safely storing and disposing of prescription medications.
Safely use:
Safely store:
Safely dispose:
Always talk to your doctor about how to use a prescription medication before taking it.
Be sure to follow dosing recommendations closely.
Do not mix medications without first checking with your doctor and don’t ever mix prescription opioids with alcohol.
Don’t take someone else’s medication.
Always keep prescription medications in a locked or secure place – and always out of the reach of children.
Have a family conversation about the dangers of misusing prescription medication.
Never share medications with family members.
Once you are finished using a prescription medication as directed by a medical professional, you should safely dispose of it. Don’t keep it “just in case.”
There are several ways to safely dispose of unneeded medications that are easy and can be done at home.
There are several simple options for safe disposal:
1
You can visit a drug takeback center in your community. Click HERE to see the New Mexico locations.
2
You can use a home disposal kit – available from several sources including RALI partners. Put unneeded medications in it, add water, seal and dispose of it in the trash.
3
You can use household materials to dispose of your unneeded medications. All you have to do is mix your medicines with kitty litter or old coffee grounds in an airtight container and dispose of it in your trash can.
For additional resources on addiction, including risks, prevention strategies and available resources, click HERE.
WARNING SIGNS
If someone you know has started misusing opioids, early intervention is important. Learning the warning signs of opioid addiction can help protect your family, friends and communities.
Physical and behavioral changes could indicate someone is misusing prescription opioids or illegal drugs, like heroin or fentanyl.
Common signs of opioid misuse:
Physical Signs:
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Increase in fatigue or drowsiness
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Rapid weight loss
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Frequent constipation or nausea
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Decline in personal hygiene
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Wearing long sleeves regardless of the season
Behavioral Signs:
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Unexplained absences from school or work
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Drop in grades or performance at work
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Loss of interest in hobbie
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Spending less time with friends or family
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Hanging out with a new friend group
Indicators in the Home:
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Missing prescription medications
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Empty pill bottles
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Paraphernalia, such as syringes, shoe laces or rubber hose, kitchen spoons, aluminum foil, straws, lighters
Spotting warning signs in teenagers can be particularly hard because young people go through many emotional and physical changes.
If you suspect a loved one is misusing opioids, there are resources that can help you prepare for a conversation with them.
It’s also important to talk to your family doctor about prevention and treatment options.